About Edwin I.

About Edwin

Hello! Thank you for your interest in taking guitar/piano/music lessons.

I am a professional teacher/studio musician/performer/producer with over 17 years of private teaching experience and a graduate of the University of Miami Studio Music and Jazz program in 2002 specializing in the guitar.

I am available to teach guitar(acoustic, electric, classical) for all levels, ages, and styles(pop to folk, rock to soul, world to classical) in English, Spanish and Japanese.

Born in Cali, Colombia on April 1979, I began my musical endeavors studying the piano at the age of 6. Early on I had the opportunit

y to play percussion in the school symphony while at the same time developed an intense interest in the instrument that would become my true love, the guitar.

During 1996-98 I studied jazz guitar at the New World School of the Arts music program under the direction of J.B. Dyas and Dr. Roby George. Upon graduation, I was immediately accepted to the University of Miami jazz guitar program under the direction of Randall Dollahan. It was during this time that I also refined my skills as a classical guitarist and as a composer/arranger. In addition, I began passing my knowledge onto friends and eventually began working as a teacher.

My ability to play almost any genre of music is the fruit of past experience playing with an impressive variety of music groups, including jazz combos, symphony orchestras, Andean world music ensembles, and several rock and pop groups as well. As a studio guitarist I have recorded for various artists including Jaci Velasquez, Carlos Ponce, Alexandre Pires, and Noelia.

Every one of you is unique and there are many possible paths to reach your goals in music.

With my background and music industry experience, I am able to customize my lessons for you so that you can reach your desired goals. We will take some time to find out where your passion lies in music and I will use my experience and knowledge to create a customized lesson-plan that will allow us to focus on reaching your desired goals and at the same time maintain a well rounded music education.

I find this to be key in making the lessons and your practice sessions very enjoyable, fun and laid back - knowing that everything we practice, play and talk about is in line with your goals as a student.

I will also be playing along with you and demonstrating everything that we're working on - music is meant to be shared and played with others and it is important to have that experience of interaction from early on in your lessons.

So whether it's learning to accompany yourself or others, write songs, read music, understand harmony, solo, or just jam out to your favorite songs, you will be well on your way to reaching your goals within 6 months of my lessons.

Look forward to making music with you!

Want to learn a quick exercise for mastering the fretboard on your guitar? Check out my article on the TakeLessons blog here: http://takelessons.com/blog/guitar-fretboard-chart

Reviews

Nina T. January 28, 2018·Ukulele·Online

Charlie January 4, 2018·Guitar·In studio

Edwin is knowledgeable, talented, good-humored, and most important of all: VERY patient. I started with zero knowledge of acoustic guitar and Edwin has steadily built up my confidence and challenged me to grow. He’s always flexible and works with you and your musical tastes to make sure you stay motivated. I’ve been working with him for almost a year now and I can’t recommend him enough!

Edward (Ned) T. January 4, 2018·Piano·Online

I've been taking boogie woogie piano lessons with Edwin for a couple of years now. I have little talent but Edwin has always been patient and encouraging. He is an excellent musician and seems to be able to figure out the most obscure sequences from recordings which is important because a lot of this stuff isn't written down. Plus he's willing to take an unconventional approach as normal teaching methods don't seem to work on me. I highly recommend him.

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Edwin I.

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Edwin I.

Online

(85)

starting at

$37
/ 30-min

About Mike T.

About Mike

I have played bluegrass banjo since I was 16 (I am now looking at Social Security). I have been instructing for six years since semi-retiring from my day job. I use various teaching methods and aids and have participated in training programs with the finest banjo players in the country, including Sonny Osborne, Bill Emerson, Tony Trischka, Ned Luberecki, Pete Wernick, Jim Mills, Bill Evans, Charlie Cushman and Alan Munde.

My banjo philosophy is that while we may aspire to play banjo like Earl Scruggs, it is not necessary to be at that level to enjoy playing bluegrass music. The organic simplicity of bluegrass songs, the repetition of components, and the strong melody lines makes entry level playing fun and rewarding and within the reach of anyone who is willing to try.

When bluegrass musicians are jamming together, using

new skills, learning with and from each other, there's little chance they will give up playing music. I'd say they're hooked -- on bluegrass! More people spending less time in front of a TV, and more with each other. Wholesome fun. A bigger, thriving bluegrass community. A better world!

*** Lesson Details ***I believe that anyone learning bluegrass should first learn the chords to favorite easy songs, and a simple way of accompanying. Playing songs smoothly in real time while using a songbook (or a fellow picker) for the words, is easy, fun, and builds a rhythmic/chordal foundation and repertoire.

Easy jamming is highly recommended and will be part of the learning program. Good sounding rhythm techniques can be added easily as they are learned. Through this process, overall technique is expanded and the music sounds more interesting. Once we have the chords and rhythm, different types of soloing can be added. The easiest method is to "fake it" by just playing simple licks and rhythm techniques while following the chord changes. The next step up might be to play an exact tabbed (a form of written banjo music) basic solo, or (better) a self-composed one featuring melody. This phase is exciting to enter, and of course it creates motivation to really improve and master those solos we all want to play. Since all students come to bluegrass banjo with their own unique skills and experience - I will design a program just for you to ensure you reach you playing goals.

*** Travel Equipment ***Little equipment is required for bluegrass banjo other than the instrument.

*** Specialties ***5 string Bluegrass Banjo

...

Reviews

Christine November 10, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Very good at teaching technique as well as breaking songs down so they are easier to pick up.

Chris S. November 10, 2017·Banjo·In studio

I'm as new as they come; zero banjo experience. Mike was absolutely outstanding! In my first lesson he taught me how to tune, 3 major chords, strumming, picking, rolls, and I got my first song to practice. I highly recommend Mike!

Jay June 6, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Although it is but one lesson I have had with Mike, I know he has the ability to help me get to the "next level."I could not be happier with my selection of Mike as my instructor.

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Mike T.

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Mike T.

Manassas, VA 20109

(12)

starting at

$35
/ 30-min

About Linda L.

I have been playing bluegrass banjo for over 20 years, and have performed for events such as Thanksgiving dinners at hotels, folk clubs, bluegrass festivals, and fundraisers. In addition to playing and teaching banjo, I play and teach guitar and piano, with guitar being my main instrument. I am no Earl Scruggs, but I am a great teacher for beginners and intermediate players. As a teacher, I am patient, intuitive, and always tailor the lessons to fit the interests and learning styles of each individual student.

About Linda

*** Travel Equipment ***I do not typically provide any equipment - but I am willing to select and purchase books for the students to learn from (cost of books to be reimbursed by the student/parent) when requested to do so.

I am also willing to provide stick-on note-names for the keyboard, for young children.

The students must have their own instruments, and provide a folder for sheet music and notes/instructions.

*** Specialties ***Guitar, I specialize in the following styles: jazz, rock, blues, folk, bluegrass, and children's songs.Piano: I prefer electronic keyboard to acoustic piano, but am happy to teach beginning students on a regular piano as well. I teach note-reading, playing by ear, and theory, with en emphasis on rock, pop, and folk music. I include arranging, chord theory, and use of the many features of an elec

tronic keyboard, in the lessons.Bass Guitar: I teach rock, pop, funk, and country music on bass.Banjo: I teach bluegrass, country, and some blues and rock music. I can also teach a bit of old-timey frailing/clawhammer style.English and Reading: I am highly qualified, to tutor/teach English (spoken, written, and reading comprehension) to both native English speakers and to those learning it as a second language.*** I am particularly good at working with children who have a.d.h.d. and other learning disabilities!

...

Reviews

Caleb M. February 4, 2018·Banjo·In home

My first lesson was great! I'm already at home practicing the 5-6 rolls that Linds taught me in only 30 minutes. Look forward to learning more!

Raye June 27, 2017·Ukulele·Online

Linda gave me a lot to work on for my first lesson. I am enthusiastic for the week ahead, practicing what she showed me. Great lesson!

Joe G. January 16, 2017·Banjo·In studio

Everything went great teacher is great can't wait until next lesson

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Linda L.

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Linda L.

Online

(11)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About John B.

While learning the Banjo, students will learn specific rolls such as forward and backward rolls, chords strum patterns, rhythm playing and various songs such as Foggy Mountain Breakdown and Dueling Banjos. They will learn the styles of Bluegrass and Claw Hammer playing.

About John

I have been playing for about 35 years and teaching music and guitar for 25 years. I have a Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Classical guitar. I've taught at the University level and currently maintain a professional studio in Arlington, Virginia. I am very well versed in many different styles of music including, Rock, Blues, Jazz, Classical and Suzuki guitar. Students who decide to sign up with me, will have a lesson plan, a strategy for meeting their musical goals and will enjoy themselves in the process.

*** Lesson Details ***Lessons are custom designed to meet the needs of every student, whether it is someone just starting out with the basics or for that seasoned player that wants to hone their professional skills. As a teacher, I consider myself easy going and laid back, with an emphasis on encouraging each student to do their very

*** Specialties ***I have been teaching for about 25 years and am well versed in Jazz, Classical, Rock, Blues and Country genres. I focus on anything from note reading, theory, improvisation and composing.

...

Reviews

Mary Beth H. February 19, 2018·Classical Guitar·In home

John is a great teacher—very patient with me as a beginner in the classical guitar. I highly recommend him as a teacher!

Curtis H. January 19, 2018·Bass Guitar·In home

John is so encouraging, and he was able to read my abilities and needs in just a few moments. I'm looking forward to more lessons!

John B.

John B.

About Scott S.

I will start you from the very beginning and teach you basic rolls, chords, scales, the anatomy of your banjo, how to hold it and tune it, re-string it, read tabs and chords, play in rhythm, and more.

About Scott

About:As a fixture on the local music scene for several years, Scott Slay enjoys making music in Denver, CO and the surrounding Rocky Mountain area both as a solo performing act, and with his Bluegrass and Americana group, Scott Slay & the Rail. Scott has won multiple songwriting awards across the United States, and frequently competes in industry settings. His debut album was with the Americana group, Big Virginia Sky, whose self-titled release took them across the country with stints in major folk and bluegrass festivals, and a concluding trip to the International Bluegrass Music Association's (IBMA) 2016 Showcase in Raleigh, NC.

Teaching:Scott's holds a BA in Music Education from University of West Florida, and an MBA from MD University College. He has been playing music since the age of six, and has toured around the world with

various groups. Scott's teaching style is relaxed and aimed at having fun while learning to play music. He prefers to focus on Americana, Folk, Country, and Bluegrass styles, and is an expert in flat-picking.

Fun fact: Scott is currently in the production stage of his first solo album, produced by Bluegrass legend and banjoist Scott Vestal, with his current group, Scott Slay & the Rail. Featured artists include: Mountain Heart vocalist and piano player Josh Shilling, Lonesome River Band frontman and banjoist Sammy Shelor, Banjoist Scott Vestal, Guitarist (Patty Loveless Band) Brandon Bostic, Nickel Creek Bassist Mark Schatz, and many more.

...

Reviews

Peter January 22, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·Online

Such a great teacher! You can tell Scott has a lot of experience because he is so patient.

Tim January 22, 2018·Guitar·In studio

Great teacher, patient. I was happy with what my daughter learned.

Hayley January 22, 2018·Acoustic Guitar·Online

Best music instructor my son has ever had!!! Will be back!

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Scott S.

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Scott S.

Online

(7)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

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About Frankie P.

Fun instrument for which I focus on the claw hammer technique and Earl Scruggs style rolls.

About Frankie

Being a Berklee College of Music Graduate with a Masters in Music Education from Boston University, I have been playing for almost 30 years and teaching private lessons for 15+, I am a Professional Instructor that has the ability and resources to teach several styles ranging from Rock to Classical to Jazz to Country to Metal. In other words, anything you want to learn I can teach you or your child using the songs and exercises necessary to help you become a real musician.

*** Lesson Details ***The lessons are tailored to you and your wants as a musician. Whether you have an electric, acoustic, or classical guitar, along with various method books, I have the music, print outs, and instructional material to make sure you progress as you should.

The lessons will help you learn to play guitar through chord diagrams,

theory, charts, examples, and exercises, as well as anything you hear on the radio.

*** Travel Equipment ***The students should have their own instrument and method book. Other that that, I provide all other handouts and supplemental material and handouts.

*** Specialties ***I work the most in rock, bluegrass, country, contemporary, and jazz styles.

...

Reviews

Lisa March 5, 2018·Banjo·Online

Anetta June 10, 2017·Piano·

Frankie teaches the perfect mix of fun and serious technique! His care to make sure the student not only learns but understands why and what they are learning has me excited to stick with piano for the long haul! I can't wait to se what future lessons bring! :)

Matthew December 29, 2016·Banjo·In studio

Great, knowledgeable teacher. Highly recommend.

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Frankie P.

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Frankie P.

Online

(5)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Ryan B.

I've been teaching banjo for 4 years helping students develop a love for the instrument and learn more about music along the way. My specialty is Scruggs style picking, but I'm also comfortable teaching clawhammer, reno, or melodic styles and enjoy working on hybrid and progressive styles, too. Within the first few lessons you'll have a solid base of picking and chord changes and even a few simple songs under your belt. Moving on from there I will craft lessons to move you toward a "goal song," making sure to cater your progress to your needs while keeping a focus on good technique. I enjoy working with students of all ages and experiences and I can't wait to meet you!

About Ryan

Ryan is a musician from Jefferson Park who plays a plethora of different instruments. He specializes in guitar, banjo, mandolin and ukulele, but also dabbles in accordion, piano, drums, harmonica and several others. Learning to play instruments is one of the true pleasures in his life and he hopes he can make it one of yours, too.

As a teacher Ryan's goals are fairly simple. First and foremost he wants to make his lessons comfortable, interesting and fun. A close second is to build a strong foundation on the basics, so as we learn more advanced techniques we have a solid base of technique to build upon. And third, an understanding of the theory and history behind the music is a great way to engage in the music beyond just the rote learning of technique.

After a brief foray in physics, Ryan settle into a degree in music at the Univer

sity of Illinois, specializing in Ethnomusicology (the study of music of different cultures). This education gave him a strong background in music theory and history in the Western tradition, but also opened him up to a vast experience of a diverse cross section of music from around the world. His insatiable love for learning new instruments started here, where he studied music from West Africa to Bali.

Currently Ryan is a co-lead singer, songwriter and stringed instrument player for the local band Distant Brothers, a folk rock band based out of Chicago. They play venues throughout the Midwest, with some of the notable venues being House of Blues, Metro and Cubby Bear in Chicago. Another highlight of his time with the band has been a collaboration with Oistrakh Symphony Orchestra, where he not only was able to play in collaboration with the orchestra, but joined in the arranging and conceptualization of some of the pieces played.

...

Reviews

Waylon March 6, 2018·Banjo·Online

My first lesson with Ryan went very well. I look forward to continuing our lessons. He is very knowledgeable and friendly to work with.

Drew March 4, 2018·Banjo·Online

Gerry March 3, 2018·Banjo·In studio

When Ryan accepted me as a student almost 2-1/2 years ago, he took on the daunting task of teaching both mandolin and banjo to a complete novice...who also happened to be nearly 70 years old! Ryan is a technically accomplished professional player who patiently encourages and supports his students as they find their own musical voices. He himself is a broadly cultured and serious student of musical theory, who welcomes and is happy to answer questions about why things do - or don’t! - work musically. Studying with Ryan has been a splendid experience, and an excellent investment of time and money.

Ryan B.

Ryan B.

About Lisa A.

I teach a 3 finger style of Banjo playing and how to read, hear, and play music. I teach you how to play the chords, read the tablature and play by ear.

About Lisa

Lisa Abrams has a Vocal Music Education Degree from Capital University, Columbus, Ohio.

She graduated in 1997 and has been teaching professionally, both in schools and privately, since that time. She has taught General Music grades K-8 in the Parochial School System. She has been the Music Director and Worship Leader for several Churches where she has directed Adult Choir, Praise Team, Bell Choir, Chime Tone Choir, Orchestra and Children's Choir. She has accompanied all these ensembles on Piano, Guitar, and Organ.

Lisa Abrams teaches all areas of music: Theory, Technic, Reading, Counting, Ear Training, Composition, etc. When you take lessons from Lisa, her goal is more than teaching you how to play or sing a song. She gives you the tools necessary to be able to play ANY song. She teaches what few others teach; how to BE a music

ian. She wants you to be able to pursue any avenue of Music that appeals to you, professionally or personally.

...

Reviews

Sean P. April 10, 2017·Trumpet·Online

Good lesson

Madonna Z. August 2, 2016·Vocal Training·In studio

Lisa is a multi-talented musician. She has been gifted with voice as well as the understanding and ability to play music. It was an honor to be in the Mt. pleasant choir and be led by her. She shows compassion and patience and her love for music is contagious. She is a blessing to everyone she teaches .

Mandy B July 25, 2016·Piano·Online

Lisa has taught my daughter piano lessons since Kindergarten. She worked with her both in person and online. Lisa is very patient and encouraging. It's amazing to see my daughter's progress. Lisa is a wonderful instructor to work with.

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Lisa A.

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Lisa A.

Online

(16)

starting at

$30
/ 30-min

About Gina C.

Learn three finger banjo playing. Traditional bluegrass, melodic, progressive. All ages, all levels! I am a professional touring musician, and teach at banjo camps across the country. I teach privately at your home or mine, or online if that is more convenient for you. Flexible schedule.

About Gina

Hi aspiring banjo pickers! I am passionate about sharing my knowledge of the banjo with you. All students, all levels, all ages.

...

Reviews

Kim January 20, 2018·Banjo·Online

Edmund November 15, 2017·Banjo·In home

Gina has got that happy knack of teaching with insight into the hurdles one has to jump to get over, with patience and enthusiasm. She is a top class performer too I have just bought her CD "True Colors", what a voice and a poet too, don't miss it.
I can't wait for my next lessons with her.

Drew November 11, 2017·Banjo·Online

Gina was recommended to me as an excellent online banjo instructor and she has more than lived up to that reputation. I started taking online lessons with her a year ago from Europe and my progress with the banjo has sky-rocked faster than all the work I tried on my own with books. Gina's clear and patient instruction style makes learning easy, and her feedback on my progress inspires me to practice and be passionate about the banjo. Whether it's for banjo instruction in person or online, I highly recommend Gina!

Affordable

Effective

Banjo Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Banjo instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Rita

"Mike incredibly skilled and patient, has a wonderful teaching manner, and is always encouraging--the perfect mix of traits for a terrific instructor."

Washington, DC teacher:
Mike T.

Review by Quinby

"Gina has been wonderful to work with, and easy to communicate with. My 10 year old son has been learning quickly under her guidance, and looks forward wit

h eagerness to every lesson. I highly recommend Gina, both for the high caliber of her playing, and for the skill with which she imparts her knowledge."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Gina C.

Review by Chris

"Great first lesson--Mike is first-class."

Washington, DC teacher:
Mike T.

Review by Christine

"Very good at teaching technique as well as breaking songs down so they are easier to pick up."

Washington, DC teacher:
Mike T.

Review by Bob

"Mike has made my attempt to learn banjo a great and pleasant experience. I look forward to his lessons."

Washington, DC teacher:
Mike T.

Review by Keith

"I wish I had found Mike sooner!

I tried to learn banjo on my own. Bought books, instruction CDs, videos on You Tube. It just wasn't happening for me - I

was about ready to give it up. Met Mike at a Bluegrass event and after just a few lessons I was really moving forward! After a few months he had me going to Bluegrass Jam Sessions. Wow is that fun!

Mike is very patient and non-judgmental. He easily accomodates my work schedule. While he is a fine banjo player himself - our lessons are always about me and how to improve my playing. I always look forward to our next lesson."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Mike T.

Review by Rick

"Mike is truly a patient, excellent teacher & communicator. He totally understands my needs and limitations, and always finds a way to address them and the

reby helps me move forward. I am absolutely confident that in the very near future I will be able to play the banjo and be able to jam with others - and I attribute all of that to Mike and his approach. My only regret is that I didn't meet him 17 years ago when I first moved to the area and decided to learn to play the banjo. I wholeheartedly recommend him for anyone - he loves to play and he loves to teach."

...

Washington, DC teacher:
Mike T.

Review by Joshua

"John was a great instructor. Friendly, encouraging, and great at demonstrating techniques."

Washington, DC teacher:
John B.

Review by Edmund

"Gina has got that happy knack of teaching with insight into the hurdles one has to jump to get over, with patience and enthusiasm. She is a top class perf

ormer too I have just bought her CD "True Colors", what a voice and a poet too, don't miss it. I can't wait for my next lessons with her."

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